Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $59,356 grant to help educate court officials in ways to serve the needs of domestic violence victims.
The Alabama Administrative Office of Courts will use funds to implement the Domestic Violence Skills Enhancement Project, a program that trains judicial system employees on the causes and consequences of domestic violence. The project also will expand existing automated systems to better link police, prosecutors and courts statewide.
“Domestic violence cases in the judicial system can be complicated and sensitive for everyone involved, including those working in the court system,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend the Administrative Office of Courts for assisting judicial employees by giving them the education they need to better serve victims during such horrible times.”
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grant from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA manages a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation development.
“Gov. Ivey understands that domestic violence cases require special knowledge and skills, and ADECA is pleased to join her and the Administrative Office of Courts in ensuring that victims are served in a professional and timely way,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.
Gov. Ivey notified Rich Hobson, AOC’s administrative director, that the grant had been approved. Matching funds of $19,785 will supplement the grant.
